How to Grow String of Buttons
Wikimedia Commons
String of Buttons
Crassula perforata
succulentString of Buttons is a delicate succulent with small, round, stacked leaves that form thin trailing stems, creating a distinctive beaded appearance. Native to South Africa, this low-maintenance houseplant is prized for its ornamental foliage and ability to thrive in containers and hanging baskets. It produces small, star-shaped white or pale pink flowers in spring.
When should you plant String of Buttons in your zone?
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Example String of Buttons timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant String of Buttons
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest String of Buttons
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 10b-11; best grown as a houseplant in cooler climates
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Get my String of Buttons timeline →Growth Stages
Propagation
3-4 weeksIndividual leaves or stem segments are placed on moist soil; roots emerge within 2-4 weeks and plantlets develop
Keep soil lightly moist until rooted; provide bright indirect light; avoid direct sunlight during establishment
Establishment
4-8 weeksYoung plantlets develop additional leaves and begin forming characteristic bead-like stem structure
Maintain bright light without direct sun; water minimally; allow roots to establish before mature watering schedule
Vegetative Growth
Ongoing throughout yearPlant develops multiple stems with stacked, button-like leaves; trailing habit becomes apparent
Provide bright indirect light; water only when soil is completely dry; fertilize lightly in spring and summer (optional for houseplants)
Flowering
2-4 weeks in springSmall star-shaped flowers in white or pale pink appear at stem tips, typically in spring
Maintain cool winter dormancy (50-60°F) to encourage blooming; adequate light promotes better flower production
Mature/Maintenance
IndefiniteEstablished plant maintains steady growth with trailing stems; can be pinched back to encourage bushiness
Repot every 2-3 years in spring; prune leggy growth; watch for etiolation in low light
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with rubbing alcohol or insecticidal soap; isolate affected plant; inspect regularly for reinfestation
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Remove manually with tweezers or brush; apply horticultural oil or neem oil; treat repeatedly at 2-week intervals
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Increase humidity slightly; mist foliage; use miticide or neem oil spray; improve air circulation
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Allow soil to dry between waterings; repot in fresh, well-draining mix; remove affected roots; improve drainage
Uses
Decorative Houseplant
HouseholdString of Buttons is an excellent choice for hanging baskets, shelves, and windowsills, adding visual interest with its unique bead-like leaf structure. Its trailing habit makes it ideal for brightening interior spaces with minimal care. [source]
Low-Maintenance Container Plant
HouseholdHighly drought-tolerant and adaptable to container growing, making it perfect for busy gardeners or those with limited indoor light. Thrives with infrequent watering and minimal fertilization. [source]
Propagation and Crafting
CraftEasily propagated from individual leaves, making it ideal for plant swaps, gifting, and creating arrangements. Multiple propagated plantlets can be potted together for fuller container displays. [source]
Indoor Pollinator Attraction
WildlifeSpring flowers attract small pollinators when grown outdoors or near open windows, supporting local insect populations. The blooms provide visual interest during dormant seasons. [source]
Harvest Tips
Not harvested; this is an ornamental foliage plant. Leaf propagation can occur year-round by removing individual leaves and allowing them to dry 1-2 days before placing on moist soil.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The name 'String of Buttons' perfectly describes its appearance—the stacked, coin-sized leaves resemble buttons strung on an invisible thread along the stems.
- 🌱 Crassula perforata is extremely easy to propagate; a single leaf dropped on moist soil can develop into a complete new plant, making it nearly impossible to kill through propagation mistakes.
- 🌱 In its native South African habitat, this plant grows as a low ground cover in rocky areas, and its compact form is an adaptation to water-scarce environments.
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